November 13, 2015

Game Prediction - Clemson vs. Syracuse

The Clemson Tigers (9-0 overall, 6-0 ACC) are in a New York State of Mind as they go on the road to take on a struggling Syracuse team.

Can the Tigers handle the Carrier Dome and avoid an emotional let down and claim their fifth consecutive 10-win season?

NO. 1 CLEMSON AT NO. SYRACUSE
WHERE: CARRIER DOME, SYRACUSE, NY (49,262)
KICKOFF: 3:30 P.M.
TV: ABC/ESPN2


SYRACUSE OFFENSE VS. CLEMSON DEFENSE:
Clemson’s defense gave up 194 yards to Dalvin Cook – one of the country’s top running backs – last week; however, they essentially shut him down in the second half. Syracuse won’t present near the challenge that Florida State did a week ago, especially without starting quarterback Eric Dungey. Zack Mahoney – who is 25-of-50 for 217 yards, four touchdowns and an interception – will start in his place. Mahoney’s top target will undoubtedly be Steve Ismael who has 30 catches for 458 yards and five touchdowns. Jordan Fredericks is the Orange’s leading rusher with 82 carries for 426 yards.

The big question for Syracuse is can they give their young quarterback time to throw the ball or open up holes for Fredericks? The way Clemson’s defensive line and linebackers have played recently, the answer will be no.

CLEMSON OFFENSE VS. SYRACUSE DEFENSE:
Clemson’s is as balanced an offense as you will find in the country and is averaging 488 yards of total offense, despite playing four of the top 25 defenses in the country. Wayne Gallman has 977 yards and should break the 1,000 yard mark Saturday afternoon, while quarterback Deshaun Watson will be looking to break the 500 yard mark.

Outside of the first half against Florida State, Deshaun Watson has been almost spectacular his season, and he may just have the chance to put up Heisman worthy numbers Saturday as Syracuse gives up almost 275 yards per game through the air – 111th in the country. However, he will need to find his accuracy on the long ball again if Clemson wants to have the explosive plays.

SPECIAL TEAMS: Outside of place kicker Greg Huegel who is 13-for-13 in ACC play, Clemson’s special teams has been average at best. Punter Andy Teasdall has been inconsistent. The kickoff coverage unit has struggled when Ammon Lakip doesn’t kick the ball into the endzone, and the return games have been almost non-existent. For Syracuse, Riley Dixon is averaging almost 44 yards per punt, while Ryan Norton handles kickoffs and hasn’t allowed a return in 21-of-46 attempts. At punt return, Brisley Estime has two touchdowns in 14 attempts.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN: As much as this has the look and feel of a trap game with Clemson coming off of the emotional win over Florida State and already having the ACC Atlantic wrapped up, I just don’t think Syracuse has the Jimmys and the Joes to keep this one close. It may be close for a quarter, but the Tigers’ talent wins out. Syracuse will have a couple of big plays on special teams…..

FINAL SCORE: CLEMSON 52 – SYRACUSE 10

Post written by Clemson Girl Sports Bloggess Nikki Hood


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